Senator Edgardo J. Angara called for a nationwide information campaign to train Filipinos on emergency measures and protocols when facing calamities. This is in response to the massive 8.9 magnitude earthquake which hit Japan last Friday, resulting in, floods, fires, huge explosions and worldwide tsunamis.

"Japan was hit by such a devastating earthquake--the strongest in Japan's history. Even with their level of preparedness--they have the most advanced technology to safeguard their country--casualties and terrible damage could not be avoided.

"The Philippines has seen its share of natural calamities in recent years, yet our disaster response was nowhere near as efficient as what we're seeing now in Japan. We must be better equipped to face these kinds of natural disasters which we are no strangers to," said Angara.

Angara, chair of the Senate committee on Science and Technology, said that while the country might not be able to match other countries in terms of technology and equipment, we could still take measures to protect our most valuable resource: the people.

"Creating disaster-proof infrastructures like the buildings in Japan and acquiring advanced monitoring equipment will be a massive and expensive undertaking which might not be economically feasible in the recent future.

"However, equally important is preparing the general public for these calamities. Aside from training for search and rescue efforts, we must educate each and every individual on what to do in case of catastrophe--where to go, what numbers to call, how to establish communication with family, and a basic knowledge of first aid," he explained.

Part of this survival training would be the preparation of a survival kit, containing basic necessities like non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, batteries and a mini-radio, flashlight, candles and waterproof matches

"I believe an information campaign to teach the public should be launched as soon as possible so that our people are not caught unaware," Angara emphasized.